Calling all vegetarians, vegans and veg-curious eaters: the second annual Veg Fest Vancouver takes over Granville Street between Georgia and Robson on Saturday, August 4.

Veg Fest is a day-long, free festival that offers a rare opportunity for meat-free foodies to sample fare from over a dozen veg vendors in one go.

Vancouver has a long history of catering to vegetarian needs. The Naam Restaurant is the pioneer in this genre. The Naam opened doors in Kits in 1968 and consistently wins awards for its all-veg menu and 24/7 service.

More recently, in response to growing consumer demand, a slew of sophisticated vegan eateries have opened doors in the Vancouver suburbs. There’s a great Straight article on the newbies. The Acorn Restaurant, which opened on Main Street in July, is another newcomer to watch, serving gourmet, seasonal veg/vegan/raw fare.

Vancouver vegetarians (and those who are growing weary of bacon mania and whole hog dinners) will have a chance to check out their options for vegetarian cuisine at Veg Fest, from 11am to 7pm. Expect restaurants, bakeries, and snack foods ranging from energy bars to artisan chocolate.

Chomp Vegan Eatery, which opened in late 2011 in Port Moody, is the first vegan restaurant in Metro Vancouver’s tri-cities. Chomp owner Vanessa Mills serves a variety of locally-sourced, seasonal salads, rice bowls, wraps, pizza and dessert.

Edible Flours, which you may have already met at their Kitsilano retail shop or stand at the Trout Lake Farmer’s Market, is Vancouver’s premier vegan bakery. Go for the decadent cupcakes, but don’t leave without trying the raspberry iced doughnuts.

Veg Fest Vancouver takes place on Granville Street between Georgia and Robson from 11am to 7pm, Saturday, August 4. Admission is free!

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